The Employee Civic Fund bringing real change across Massillon, Canton, and Stark County during the holidays.
Every year, when Stark County settles into the familiar rhythm of holiday lights, colder mornings, and community gatherings, something meaningful unfolds inside Progressive Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram. Long before the first wreath goes up, employees have already been contributing—week after week, paycheck after paycheck—to the Employee Civic Fund. Started nearly 75 years ago, this tradition is built on one simple idea: when many people give a little, incredible things can happen.
This November, that idea turned into action once again. Representatives from local nonprofits gathered at the dealership in Massillon, Ohio, welcomed not just with handshakes but with gratitude, warmth, and the unmistakable energy that comes from a community choosing to take care of its own.
Below is a look at the organizations supported this year—and the impact these gifts help create right here in Stark County.
Supporting the Heart of Stark County
Our Community — $24,000
This year’s largest contribution reflects the dealership’s deep commitment to Massillon and surrounding areas like Canton, Perry Township, and Jackson Township. These funds help address immediate needs—from housing support to emergency assistance for families—ensuring that help is never far away for neighbors facing hardship.
Strengthening Local Nonprofits
Total Living Center — $1,250
In Canton, the Total Living Center stands as a refuge for individuals experiencing homelessness or food insecurity. This donation helps them continue offering hot meals, essential services, and the compassionate care that anchors so many lives.
The Salvation Army — $2,000
Across Stark County, especially in Massillon and Canton, The Salvation Army provides emergency shelter, utility assistance, and holiday gifts for families who need a hand. This contribution supports their seasonal programs—the very ones that help ensure no child is forgotten during the holidays.
Soroptimist International — $2,000
Serving women and girls in communities throughout Northeast Ohio, Soroptimist programs focus on education, mentorship, and empowerment. This donation helps expand scholarships and personal development opportunities for young women striving for a better future.
S.A.M. Center — $1,250
Based in Massillon, the S.A.M. Center (Serving Area Military) supports veterans and active-duty service members with food, hygiene items, and emergency aid. This gift helps keep their shelves stocked and their outreach strong during the holiday season.
Refuge of Hope — $2,250
Located in Canton, Refuge of Hope provides meals and shelter to men experiencing homelessness. This contribution supports their kitchen, clothing services, and the life-skills programs that help individuals rebuild stability.
Meals on Wheels — $1,000
For seniors in Stark County, a hot meal and a friendly face can make all the difference. Meals on Wheels uses this donation to deliver nutrition and connection to homebound residents across the region.
Hammer & Nails — $2,750
Home repairs aren’t just about walls and roofs—they’re about dignity. Hammer & Nails, serving Canton and surrounding neighborhoods, provides critical home restoration for low-income homeowners. This donation helps keep more families safe and warm this winter.
Compassion Delivered — $1,500
Based in North Canton, Compassion Delivered prepares and delivers medically tailored meals to individuals battling life-threatening illnesses. This contribution ensures that more families receive food made with care, hope, and nutritional support.
CommQuest Services — $1,750
As one of Stark County’s most vital behavioral health organizations, CommQuest offers mental health services, addiction recovery programs, and family support. This donation helps bring stability and healing to individuals navigating some of life’s greatest challenges.
Children’s Joy Fund — $500
Sometimes the smallest amount carries the biggest meaning. This gift supports Children’s Joy Fund’s mission of providing comfort items and essentials to children facing hardship across the region.
Boys & Girls Club — $2,500
In Massillon and Canton, the Boys & Girls Clubs provide after-school programs, mentorship, and safe spaces where kids can learn, grow, and build confidence. This donation helps bring new opportunities to local youth.
Akron Children’s Hospital — $2,000
Families across Stark County rely on Akron Children’s Hospital for pediatric care. This contribution supports specialized health services and holiday programming that brings joy to children receiving treatment during this time of year.
A Tradition Rooted in Generosity
For more than seven decades, the Employee Civic Fund at Progressive Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has reflected the spirit of Stark County—steady, generous, and deeply connected. Every dollar given by employees is a vote for the kind of community they want to build: one where families are supported, hunger is addressed, and no one faces hardship alone.
These donations aren’t corporate mandates. They’re personal. They come from service advisors, technicians, sales consultants, and office staff—people who care about their neighbors and want to see their city thrive.
Why It Matters?
Because generosity multiplies. Because when people in Massillon, Canton, and surrounding towns stand together, challenges feel smaller and hope feels bigger. Because the holiday season isn’t about what we buy—it’s about what we build.
And this year, as each organization walked out of the dealership with a check in hand, the room felt lighter, brighter—full of possibility.
Looking Ahead
Progressive Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram remains committed to supporting local nonprofits, uplifting families, and being an active partner in the wellbeing of Stark County. As we move into the new year, the dealership will continue fostering partnerships, celebrating community achievements, and honoring the values that define this region.
To every organization doing the hard, necessary work: thank you. To the employees who make this tradition possible: your generosity is felt far beyond the dealership doors.
Here’s to a season of giving, and a community that always shows up for one another.